Thyroid: meaning, definitions and examples

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thyroid

 

[ ˈθaɪrɔɪd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

anatomy gland

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that are essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. Thyroid hormones also play a critical role in the body's energy levels and overall health. An imbalance in thyroid hormone levels can lead to various medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Synonyms

thyroid gland.

Examples of usage

  • She was diagnosed with hypothyroidism due to an underactive thyroid.
  • The doctor ordered blood tests to check her thyroid hormone levels.
  • Thyroid cancer is considered rare but can have serious implications.
  • Proper thyroid function is vital for metabolism and energy.

Translations

Translations of the word "thyroid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tireoide

🇮🇳 थायरॉइड

🇩🇪 Schilddrüse

🇮🇩 tiroid

🇺🇦 щитовидна залоза

🇵🇱 tarczyca

🇯🇵 甲状腺

🇫🇷 thyroïde

🇪🇸 tiroides

🇹🇷 tiroid

🇰🇷 갑상선

🇸🇦 الغدة الدرقية

🇨🇿 štítná žláza

🇸🇰 štítna žľaza

🇨🇳 甲状腺

🇸🇮 ščitnica

🇮🇸 skjaldkirtill

🇰🇿 қалқанша без

🇬🇪 გარეგანი ჯირკვალი

🇦🇿 qalxanvari vəz

🇲🇽 tiroides

Etymology

The term 'thyroid' derives from the Greek word 'thyreos', meaning 'shield'. It was first used in medical terminology around the early 19th century when anatomists were describing the gland's shape, which resembles a shield. The gland itself was discovered in ancient times, but its functions were not well understood until the 19th century, when researchers began to study its role in metabolism and hormone production. Over the years, significant advancements in medical science have illuminated the importance of the thyroid in human health, and it continues to be a crucial area of study in endocrinology.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,945 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.